Safe Boating Awareness Week May 16 to 22, 2026
Keeping you and your crew safe on the water is of utmost importance. The following five key boating messages will help keep you safe:
1. Wear Your Life jacket
Over 80% of Canadians who drown while boating were either not wearing a life jacket or wearing one improperly. Modern life jackets and personal
flotation devices are designed for comfort and mobility, making it
easier than ever to wear one at all times while on the water.
Make sure you have a properly sized life jacket or PFD for each person onboard.
2. Boat Sober
Alcohol, cannabis, and other impairing substances significantly increase
the risk of boating accidents and fatalities. Operating a boat while
impaired is illegal and dangerous for everyone on the water.
3. Be Cold Water Safe
Cold water shock can affect even experienced swimmers. Sudden immersion
in cold water can impact breathing, mobility, and survival time. Wearing
a life jacket greatly improves your chances of survival in an emergency
situation.
4. Take a Boating Course
All operators of powered recreational vessels in Canada should carry
proof of competency, such as a Pleasure Craft Operator Card. Additional
training and boating education courses can further improve confidence,
awareness, and on-water safety.
5. Be Prepared
Before leaving the dock, ensure your vessel is equipped with the
required safety gear, monitor weather conditions, carry sufficient fuel,
and share your trip plan with someone on shore. Preparation plays a
major role in preventing emergencies and reducing pressure on rescue
services.
Safe boating is everyone’s responsibility. By staying informed, prepared, and alert, Canadians can help create safer waterways for all this boating season.
Is there one step you can take to make your boating experience safer? For courses or hands-on private instruction aboard your vessel, Contact Us
#BoatingBC #SafeBoatingAwarenessWeek #BoatingSafety #BoatSafe #WearYourLifejacket
#BoatSober #ColdWaterSafety #SafeBoating #LifejacketOn #BoatingCanada #WaterSafety
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